After a stroke, you might find that you're spending more on household energy bills, especially if you have a medical condition or during the colder months. However, there are options you can explore to make your home more energy-efficient, reduce your bills or get extra help if you need it.
1. Talk to your current energy provider
Check that you're on the cheapest tariff available to you. If you're struggling with your bills, ask if they can offer you any help, such as putting you on the priority service register to receive additional support.
2. Look for a cheaper energy provider than your current supplier
There are a range of energy comparison websites that will help you find the best deal for you.
The most popular organisation is Uswitch, who compare prices for many of the UK's biggest energy providers. Visit their website or call 0800 6888 557.
3. Apply for the Warm Home Discount Scheme
Through this government scheme, you can get £140 off your electricity bill. The money isn't paid to you, it's discounted directly from your energy bill between September and March.
For more information visit the GOV.UK Warm Home Discount Scheme or call 0800 731 0214.
4. Check if you are eligible for a Winter Fuel Payment
If you were born on or before the 5 October 1954, you could get between £100 and £300 to help pay your heating bills. This is tax-free and paid regardless of your income or savings.
If you're eligible and already receive a state pension or certain other benefits, you should receive this payment automatically. You only need to make a claim if you are of the right age and don't receive any benefits, or only receive Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction or Child Tax Credit.
To find out more about the scheme or make a claim, visit GOV.UK Winter Fuel Payment or call 0800 731 0160.
5. Apply for help with energy-saving home improvements
If you're a homeowner or residential landlord, you can apply for different schemes to help pay for the cost of installing energy-efficient improvements to your home:
England – GOV.UK Green Homes Grant.
Scotland – Home Energy Scotland.
Wales – Gov Wales Nest Scheme.
Northern Ireland – NIHE GOV Energy Advice.
For more information and support
Contact our Stroke Helpline on 0303 3033 100 or helpline@stroke.org.uk.
You can also download our 'Benefits and financial assistance' guide. And see our 'Save energy and reduce your bills' article to find out about our partnership with British Gas.
Stroke News magazine
This article is featured in the winter 2020 edition of our magazine, Stroke News. Subscribe to our future editions available in print, on audio CD, or via email.